Gay's The beggar's opera, with new settings of the airs and additional music by Frederic Austin

S

Pepusch, John Christopher
cThe beggar's opera.

Libretto , English^

Gay's the beggar fs opera

-50
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MO

$ ay

With New Settings of the Airs and additional Music

BY

LIBRETTO

i o

UNIVERSITY OF TORONTO

25039

EDWARD JOHNSON
MUSIC LIBRARY

NEW YORK
PARIS

CT' ^rrawKcAj

LONDON TORONTO SYDNEY

CAPETOWN LOS ANGELES

COPYRIGHT 1920 BY BOOSEY a CO.

PRINTED IN U 9. A.

M/ ,F

C AS T

PEACHUM

LOCKIT

MACHEATH

FILCH

MAT OP THE MINT

THE BEGGAR

MR S. PEACHUM

POLLY PEACHUM

LUCY LOCKIT

DIANA TRAPES

JENNY DIVID

DRAWER JAILER

MACHEATH »S GANG (5)

WOMEN OF THE TOWN (8)

ML

INTRODUCTION

SCENE ; Curtain up. Stage empty,
inner tableau curtain, in front of
back rostrum and steps, down. ENTER
PLAYER followed by BEGGAR.

Beggar

: am a beggar, and if poverty be a title to poetry nobody can dis-
pute mine... I own myself of the company of Beggars and I make one
of their weekly festivals at St, Gile's. I have small yearly sal-
ary for the catches I sing and I am welcome to a dinner there
whenever I please, which is more than most poets can say. Now I
have composed an Opera, both the words and the catches thereof,
and -

Player

As we Players live by the muses we encourage poetical merit where-
ever we find it* The muses contrary to all other ladies, pay no
distinction to dress. Be the Author even a Beggar, we push his
play as far as it will go, so although you are in need of success,
we wish you success heartily, which is out of the common, it being
the custom to wish success only to those who need it not*

Beggar

I cannot sufficiently acknowledge your charity in bringing this
piece on the stage. It's a mighty strange piece. I hope I may
be forgiven that I have not made my Opera unnatural like those in
vogue. This is the most natural Opera in the world. It begins
in the house of a Receiver of stolen goods, and ends in the con-
demned hold. Every personage in it is either a highwayman, a
fence, a Jailer, a pimp, a trull or a trollop - in short, there
is not an honourable man nor an honest woman among *em. But all
is human*

Player

Have done upon this topic. Foul not thine own nest. See^ the
actors are preparing to begin, it is time for us to withdraw. Mr,
(Insert Conductor's name) play away the overture,

OVERTURE.

(When the OVERTURE is concluded, the inner tab-
leau curtain is raised, discovering PEACHUM
seated on the steps of the rostrum,)

1-1-1.

ACT ONE
SCENE ONE

SCENE; PEACHUM rS house,

AT RISE; PEACHUM sitting on rostrum
C. with a large book of ac-
counts •

Peachum

AIR NO, 2

•

Through all the Employments of Life
Each Neighbour abuses his Brother;
Trull and Rogue they call Husband and

Wife :

All Professions be-rogue one another;
The Priest calls the Lawyer a Cheat.
The Lawyer be-knaves the Divine:
And the Statesman, because he's so

great,
Thinks his Trade as honest as mine,

A Lawyer is an honest Employment, so is mine. Like me too he
acts in a double Capacity, both against Rogues and for 'em; for
•tis but fitting that we should protect and encourage Cheats,
since we live by them.

(ENTER PILCH up stage R., to PEACHUM C.)

Filch

Sir, Black Moll hath sent word her Trial comes on in the After-
noon, and she hopes you will order Matters so as to bring her off.

Peachum

Why, as the Wench is very active and industrious, you may satisfy
her that I'll soften the Evidence •

Peachum

A lazy dog I This is death without Reprieve* I may venture to
Book him.

(Writes)

For informing upon Tom Gagg, forty pounds-. Let Betty Sly know

-(cont.)-

1-1-2.

Peachum (Cont.)

that Ifll save her from Transportation, for I can get more by
her staying in England,

(Rises and comes D.S. C.)

I love to let women escape. A good sportsman always lets the hen
partridges fly, because the breed of the game depends upon them.
Besides, here the Law allows us no reward, there is nothing to be
got by the death of women - except our wives.

Filch

Without dispute, Betty is a fine womanl !Twas to her I was oblig
ed for my education, and - to say a bold word - she hath trained
up more young fellows to the business than the gaming table.

Peachum

Truly, Filch, thy observation is right. We are more beholden to
women than all the Professions besides.

AIR NO. 5

Filch

!Tis woman that seduces all Mankind,
By her we first were taught the wheed-

ling Arts
Her very eyes can cheat; when most

she is kind
She tricks us of our money with our

hearts.

For her, like wolves by night we roam

for Prey,
And practise ev!ry fraud to bribe her

charms ;
For suits of Love, like Law, are won

by Pay,
And Beauty must be fee'd into our arms.

(At end of song FILCH skips off R.)

Peachum

(Calls after him)

Make haste to Newgate, boy, and let my friends know what I in-
tend;

(Coming down stage C.)
for I love to make them easy one way or other.

(PEACHUM crosses and sits bench D.R.)

But 'tis now high time to look about me for a decent execution
against next Sessions. I hate a lazy Rogue, by whom one "can get
nothing 'till he is hang'd. A Register of the Gang.

(Reading)

I-I-3.

Peachum (Cont.)

Slippery Sam; he goes off the next Sessions, for the villain
hath the impudence to have views of following his trade as a
tailor, which he calls honest employment. A cart is absolutely
necessary for him*

(MRS. PEACHUM appears and crosses down
rostrum steps to PEACHUM)

Mrs. Peachum

What of Bob Booty, husband? I hope nothing bad hath betided him.
You know, my dear, he's a favorite customer of mine. 'Twas he
made me a present of this ring.

Peachum

I have set his name down in the Black List, that's all, my dear;
he spends his life among women, and as soon as his money is gone,
one or other of the ladies will hang him for the reward and
there's forty pounds lost to us for ever.

Mrs. Peachum

You know, my dear, I never meddle in matters of death. I always
leave those affairs to you. Women indeed are bitter bad judges
in these cases, for they are so partial to the brave that they
think every man handsome who is going to the camp or the gallows.

AIR NO. 4

(When this air is sung, the succeed-
ing one should be omitted, and vice-
versa. )

If any wench Venus girdle wear,

Though she be never so ugly;

Lilies and roses will quickly appear

And her face look wond'rous snugly

Beneath the left ear so fit but a cord,

(a Rope so charming a Zone isl)

The Youth in his cart hath the air of a

lord,
And we cry, there dies an Adonis I

But really husband, you should not be too hardhearted, for you
never had a finer, braver set of men than at present. We have
not had a murder among them all, these seven months. And truly,
my dear, that is a great blessing.

Peachum

What a dickens is the woman always a whimpering about murder for?
No gentleman is ever look'd upon the worse for killing a man in
his own defense; and if business cannot be carried on without it,
what would you have a gentleman do?

1-1-4.

Mrs, Peachum

If I am in the wrong, my dear, you must excuse me, for nobody
can help the frailty of an over -scrupulous conscience,

Peachum

Murder is as fashionable a crime as a man can be guilty of. How
many fine gentlemen have we in Newgate every year, purelyi upon
that article I If they have wherewithal to persuade the Jury to
bring it in Manslaughter, what are they the worse for it? So,
my dear, have done upon this subject. Was Captain Macheath here
this morning, for the banknotes he left with you last week?

Mrs • Peachum

Yes, my dear; and though the bank hath stopt payment, he was so
cheerful and so agreeable! Sure there is not a finer gentleman
upon the road than the Captainl If he comes from Bagshot at any
reasonable hour, he hath promisfd to make one this evening with
Polly and me, and Bob Booty at a party of Quadrille. Pray, my
dear, is the Captain rich?

Peachum

The Captain keeps too good company ever to grow rich, Marybone
and the chocolate-houses are his undoing*

Mrs. Peachum

Really, I am sorry upon Polly !s account the Captain hath not
more discretion. What business hath he to keep company with
Lords and Gentlemen? He should leave them to prey upon one an-
other.

Peachum

(Crosses to MRS. PEACHUM)

Upon Polly1 s account I What a plague does the woman mean? Upon
Polly *s account?

Mrs. Peachum
Captain Macheath is very fond of the girl.

Peachum
And what then?

Mrs. Peachum

If I have any skill in the ways of women, I am sure Polly thinks
him a very pretty man*

Peachum

And what then? You would not be so mad to have the wench marry
him? Gamesters and Highwaymen are generally very good to their
wenches, but they are very devils to their wives.

Mrs. Peachum

But if Polly should be in love, how should we help her, or how
can she help herself? Poor girl, I am in the utmost concern
about her.

I-I-5.

AIR NO. 5*

If Love the Virgin1 s heart invade,
How, like a moth, the simple maid
Still plays about the flame!
If soon she be not made a* wife
Her honor's singfd and then for life
She's a what I dare not name.

(#When this air is sung, Air 3
should be omitted.)

Peachum

(Rises and crosses to MRS. PEACHUM)

Look ye, wife. A handsome wench in our way of business is as
profitable as at the Bar of a Temple Cof fee-House, My daughter
to me should be, like a Court Lady to a Minister of State, a
key to the whole gang. Marriedl If the affair is not already
done, Ifll terrify her from it, by the example of our neighbors.-

Mrs. Peachum

Mayhap, my dear, you may injure the girl. She loves to imitate
the fine ladies, and she may only allow the Captain liberties in
the view of interest.

Peachum

But 'tis your duty, my dear, to warn the girl against her ruin,
and to instruct her how to make the most of her beauty. I'll
go to her this moment, and sift her. In the meantime, wife, rip
out the coronets and marks of these dozen of cambric handker-
chiefs, for I can dispose of them this afternoon to a chap in the
city.

(Hands handkerchiefs to MRS. PEACHUM and
EXITS P.)

Mrs. Peachum

Never was a man more out of the way in an argument! Why must
our Polly, forsooth, differ from her sex, and love only her hus-
band? And why must Polly's marriage, contrary to all observa-
tion, make her the less followed by other men? All men are thieves
in love, and like a woman the better for being another's property.
(Crosses to bench - sings sitting bench L. )

AIR NO. 6

A maid is like the golden ore,
Which hath guineas intrinsical in't,
Whose worth is never known before
It is try'd and imprest in the Mint.
A wife's like a guinea in gold,
Stamped with the name of her spouse;
Now here, now there; is bought, or is

sold;
And is current in every house*

I-I-6.

(MRS. PEACHUM crosses to C. FILCH appears
door L. and Is brought to C. by MRS. PEACHUM)

Mrs • Peachum
Come hither, Pilch

(To AUDIENCE)

I am as fond of this child as though my mind misgave me he were
my own. He hath as fine a hand at picking a pocket as a woman,
and is as nimble-finger 'd as a juggler.

(To FINCH)

If an unlucky Session does not cut the rope of thy life, I pro-
nounce, boy, thou wilt be a great man in History. Where was
your post last night, my boy?

Filch

I ply'd at the Opera, Madam; and considering 'twas neither dark,
nor rainy, so that there was no great hurry in getting chairs
and coaches, made a tolerable hand on't. These handkerchiefs,
Madam.

(Gives a string of handkerchiefs to her)

Filch
And this snuff box,

Mrs. Peachum
Set in goldi A pretty encouragement this to a young beginner.

Filch

I had a fair tug at a charming gold watch. Plague take the tai-
lors for making the fobs so deep and narrow J It stuck by the
way, and I was forc'd to make my escape under a coach. Really,
Madam, I fear I shall be cut off in the flower of my youth, so
that every now and then, since I was pump't, I have thoughts of
taking up and going to sea.

(Dances a hornpipe step)

Mrs. Peacham

You should go to Hockley in the Hole, or the dice houses of Mary«
bone, child, to learn Valor. These are the schools that have
bred so many brave men. But, hark you, my lad. Don't tell me
a lie; for you know I hate a liar. Do you know anything that
hath pass'd between Captain Macheath and our Polly?

Filch

I beg you, Madam, don't ask me; for I must either tell a lie to
you or to Miss Polly; for I promis'd her I would not tell.

Mrs. Peachum
But when the honor of our family is concern !d—

I-I-7.

Pilch

I shall lead a sad life with Miss Polly, if ever she conies to
know that I told you. Besides, I would not willingly forfeit
my own honor by betraying anybody.

Mrs. Peachum

Yonder comes my husband and Polly. Come, Filch, you shall go
with me Into my own room, and tell me the whole story, 1*11
give thee a most delicious glass of a cordial that I keep for my
own drinking.

(she drags FILCH off door L. )

(POLLY appears up R. Goes C. followed by
PEACHUM to L.)

Polly

I know as well as any of the fine ladies how to make the most of
myself and of my man, too« A woman knows how to be mercenary,
though she hath never been in a court or at an Assembly. We have
it in our natures, Papa. If I allow Captain Macheath some trif-
ling liberties, I have this watch, and other visible marks of his
favor to show for it. A girl who cannot grant some things, and
refuse what is most material, will make but a poor hand of her
beauty, and soon be thrown upon the common*

(POLLY sings C. PEACHUM crosses, sits
bench D.R.)

AIR NO. 7

Virgins are like the fair flower in

its lustre.

Which in the garden enamels the ground;
Near it the bees in play flutter and

cluster,

And gaudy butterflies frolic around*
But when once pluck fd, 'tis no longer

alluring,
To Covent-Garden 'tis sent (as yet

sweet)
There fades, and shrinks, and grows

past all enduring
Rots, stinks and dies, and is trod

under feet.
V

Peachum

(Rises and crosses to POLLY)

You know, Polly, I am not against your toying and trifling with
a Customer in the way of business, or to get out a secret or so.
But if I find out that you have playfd the fool and are married,
you Jade, you, I1 11 cut your throat, hussy. Now you know my mind.

I-I-8.

(MRS. PEACHUM appears door L. and quickly
moves down stage)

AIR NO. 8
DUET.

Mrs. Peachum
(In a very great passion)

Our Polly is a sad slut! not heeds
what we have taught her.

PEACHUM

I wonder any man alive will ever

rear a daughter.
For she must have both hoods and

gowns and hoops to swell her pride,
With scarfs and stays and gloves and

lace; and she'll have men beside;
And when she's drest with care and

cost, all tempting fine and gay,
As men should serve a Cowcumber, she

flings herself away.

Our Polly is a sad slut, &c.

You baggage | you hussy 1 You inconsiderable JadeJ had you been
hang'd, it would not have vex'd me, for that might have been your
misfortune; but to do such a bad thing by choice! The wench is
married, husband,

(POLLY moves up C«)

Peachum

Marriedl the Captain is a bold man, and will risk anything for
money; to be sure he believes her a fortune.

(goes up to POLLY'S R.)

Do you think your mother and I should have liv'd comfortably so
long together, if ever we had been married? Baggage!

Mrst Peachum

I knew she was always a proud slut; and now the wench hath play'd
the fool and married, because forsooth she would do like tho Gen-
try. Can you support the expense of a husband, hussy, in gaming,
drinking and whoring? Have you money enough to carry on the
daily quarrels of man and wife about who shall squander most? If
you must be married, could you introduce nobody into our family
but a highwayman? Why, thou foolish Jade, thou wilt be as ill-
used and as much neglected, as if thou hadst married a lord!

I-I-9.

Peachum

(Crosses to MRS. PEACHUM and back, (A)
then up to POLLY)

Let not your anger, ray dear, break through the rules of
(A) Tell me, Hussy, are you ruin'd or no?

Mrs. Peachum

With Polly fs fortune she might very well have gone off to a per-
son of distinction. Yes, that you might, you pouting slutl
(Crosses upstage to POLLY)

Peachum

What is the wench dumb? Speak, or I'll make you plead by squeez-
ing out an answer from you. Are you really bound wife to him, or
are you only upon liking?
(Pinches her)

Polly

(Screaming)
Oh I

Mrs. Peachum

How the mother is to be pitied who hath handsome, daughters!
Locks, bolts, bars and lectures of Morality are nothing to them;
they break through them all. They have as much pleasure in cheat-
ing a father and mother as in cheating at cards.

AIR NO. 9
Polly

Can love be control'd by advice?

Will Cupid our mothers obey?

Though my heart were as frozen as ice,

At his flame 'twould have melted away.

.

When he kist me so closely he prest,
'Twas so sweet that I must have com-

ply'd;

So I thought it both safest and best
To marry, for fear you should chide.

Mrs. Peachum
Then all the hopes of our family are gone forever and ever!

Peachum

And Macheath may hang his father and mother-in-law, in hope to
get into their daughter's fortune.

i-r-io.

Polly

I did not marry him - as 'tis tho fashion - coolly and deliber-
ately for honor or money. But, I love him.

Mrs. Peachum^

Love himl Worse and worse I I thought the girl had been better
bred. Oh, husband, husband I her Folly makes me mad I my head
swims I Ifm distractedl I can't support myself -- Ohl
(Faints)

Peachum

See, wench, to what a condition you have reduc'd your poor mo-
ther! A glass of cordial, this instantl How the poor woman
takes it to heart!

(POLLY goes out at door R. and returns with
tray and glasses to down R.C.)

Peachum
Ah, hussy, now this is the only comfort your mother has left!

(Drinks, then takes glass to MRS. PEACHUM.
He raises her to a sitting position in
which she drinks)

Polly

Give her another glass, Sir! My Mama drinks double the quanti-
ty whenever she is out of order. This you see, fetches her.

Mrs. Peachum

(Speaks, whilst getting up)

The girl shows such a readiness, and so much concern, that I
could almost find in my heart to forgive her.

AIR NO. 10
Mrs. Peachum

0, Polly, you might have toy'd

and kist.
By keeping men off, you keep them on.

Polly and Mrs. Peachum
But he GO teaz'd me,
And he so pleas'd me,
What I did, you must have done.

Mrs* Peachum

The wiles of men we should resist,
Be woo'd at length but never won.

But he so teaz'd me, etc.

I-I-ll.

Mrs. Peachum
Not wlgh a highwayman - You sorry slut I

(POLLY moves up C.)

Peachum
A word with you, wife.

(MRS. PEACHUM crosses to him)

TTis no new thing for a wench to take a man without consent of
parents. You know 'tis the frailty of woman, my dear*

Mrs, Peachum

Yes, indeed, the sex is frail* But the first time a woman is
frail, she should be somewhat nice methinks, for then or never
is the time to make her fortune. After that, she hath nothing
to do but to guard herself from being found out, and she may do
as she pleases t

Peachum
Make yourself a little easy;

(BOTH to L.)
I have a thought shall soon set all matters again to rights,

(Crosses to R, then crosses to POLLY)

Why so melancholy, Polly? since what is done cannot be undone,
we must all endeavor to make the best of it,

Mrs, Peachum

(Goes down L., turns inwards to face POLLY.
Walks up to POLLY'S L. )

Well, Polly, as far as one woman can forgive another, I forgive
thee.— Your father is too fond of you, hussy,

Polly
Then all my sorrows are at an end.

AIR NO. 11
Polly

I, like a ship in storms, was tost;

Yet afraid to put in to land:

For seiz'd in the port the vessel's

lost,

Whose treasure is contrband.
The waves are laid,
My duty's paid,

0 joy beyond expression!
Thus, safe a-shore,

1 ask no more,

My all is in my possession*

I-I-12.

Peachum

I hear customers. Go, talk with »em, Polly; but come to us
again, as soon as they are gone.

(EXIT POLLY through door R.)

Dear wife, be a little pacified. Don't let your passion run away
with your senses. Polly, I grant you, hath done a rash thing.

Mrs . Peachum

If she had had only an intrigue with the fellow, why the very
best families have excus'd and huddled up a Frailty of that sort.
!Tis marriage, husband, that makes it a blemish.

Peachum

But money, wife, is the true fuller's earth for reputations,
there is not a spot or a stain but what it can take out. I tell
you, wife, I can make this match turn to our advantage,

Mrs. Peachum

I am very sensible, husband, that Captain Macheath is worth mon-
ey, but I am in doubt whether he hath not two or three wives al-
ready, and then if he should die in a Session or two, Polly's
dower would come into dispute.

Peachum
That, indeed, is a point which ought to be considered.,.

(MRS. PEACHUM goes L. and sits on bench)

AIR NO. 12

A fox may steal your hens, Sir,

•A wench your health and pence, Sir,

Your daughter rob your chest, Sir,

Your wife may steal your rest, Sir.

A thief your goods and plate.

But this is all but picking,

With rest, pence, chest and chicken;

It ever was decreed, Sir,

If Lawyer's hand is fee'd, Sir,

He steals your whole estate.

DANCE.

The Lawyers are bitter enemies to those in our way. They don't
care that anybody should get a clandestine livelihood but them-
selves.

(POLLY RE-ENTERS from Door R. to C.)

I-I-13.

Polly

'Twas only Nimming Ted. He brought in a damask window curtain,
a hoop-petticoat, a pair of silver candlesticks, a periwig, and
one silk stocking, from the fire that happen fd last night •

Peachum

There is not a fellow that is cleverer in his way, and saves
more goods out of the fire than Ned. But now, Polly, to your
affair; for matters must not be left as they are* You are mar-
ried, then it seems?

Polly

Peachum
And how do you propose to live, child?

Polly
Like other women, Sir, upon the industry of my husband.

Mrs. Peachura
(Rises)

What is the wench turnfd fool? A highwayman's wife, like a sol-
dier, hath as little of his pay, as of his company.

Peachum

And had not you the common views of a gentlewoman in your mar-
riage, Polly?

Polly
I don't know what you mean, Sir.

Peachum
Of a jointure, and of being a widow.

Polly

But I love him, Sir; how then could I have thoughts of parting
with him?

Peachum

Parting with himl Why, this is the whole scheme and intention
of all marriage articles. The comfortable estate of widowhood
is the only hope that keeps up a wife's spirits.

(Moves to down R. to audience)

Where is the woman who would scruple to be a wife, if she had it
in her power to be a widow, whenever she pleas 'd? If you have
any views of this sort, Polly, I shall think the match not so
very unreasonable.

Polly

How I dread to hear your advice I Yet I must beg you to explain
yourself.

I-I-14.

Peachum

(Walks back to POLLY'S R. close to her)

Secure what he hath got, have him peach fd the next Sessions, and
then at once you are made a rich widow.

Polly

What, murder the man I love? The blood runs cold at my heart
with the very thought of it I

Peachum
Fie, Polly J What hath murder to do in the affair?

(Walks to down R. )

Since the thing sooner or later must happen, I daresay, the Cap-
tain himself would like that we should get the reward for his
death sooner than a stranger. So that there is no Malice in the
case.

Mrs. Peachum

Ay, husband, now you have nickfd the matter. To have him peach fd
is the only thing could ever make me forgive her.

AIR NO. 15

Polly -

(Two verses sung kneeling first to MRS.
PEACHUM R. and then TO PEACHUM L. )

0 ponder well! be not severe;
So save a wretched wife I
For on the rope that hangs my dear
Depends poor Polly's life,

(Repeat for Second Verse)

Mrs. Peachum

But your duty to your parents, hussy, obliges you to hang him.
What would many a wife give for such an opportunity?

Polly

What is a jointure, what is widowhood to me? I know my heart.
I cannot survive him.

AIR NO. 14

The turtle thus with plaintive crying,
Her lover dying,

The turtle thus with plaintive crying.
Laments her dove.

Down she drops quite spent with sigh-
ing,
Pair'd in death, as pair'd in love.

I-I-15.

Mrs. Peachum
(Rising)

What, is the fool in love in earnest, then? I hate thee for
being particular; Why, wench, thou art a shame to thy very sex.

Polly
But hear me, Mother — if you ever lov'd—

Mrs . Peachum

Those cursed play-books she reads have been her ruin.
(Moving up L. of POLLY with arms raised to
audience)

One word more, hussy, and I shall knock your brains out, if you
have any.

Peachum

Keep out of the way, Polly, for fear of mischief, and consider
of what is propos'd to you.

Mrs. Peachum

Away, hussy. Hang your husband and be dutiful.
(She takes PEACHUM down stage L. POLLY
listens)

The thing, husband,, must and shall be done. We must have him
peach1 d the next Session without her consent. If she will not
know her duty, we know ours. •

Mrs. Peachum
But in a case of necessity - our own lives are in danger.

Peachum

Then, indeed, we must comply with the customs of the world, and
make gratitude give way to interest. . .He shall be taken off.

Mrs. Peachum
Ifll undertake to manage Polly.

(Speaks last line at door L. and EXITS)

Peachum

And Ifll prepare matters for the Old Baily.
(He exits door R.)

Polly

Now I!m a wretch, indeed - Methinks I see him already in the
cart, sweeter and more lovely than the nosegay in his hand I I

-(Cont.)-

I-I-16.

Polly (Cont.)

hear the crowd extolling his resolution and intrepidity! - What
vollies of sighs are sent from the windows of Holborn that so
comely a youth should be brought to disgrace I - I see him at the
tree! The whole circle are in tears I — even butchers weep! --
Jack Ketch himself hesitates to perform his duty, and would be
glad to lose his fee, by a reprieve. What then will become of
Polly! —

(Moves a little towards C.)

He intended to lie conceal fd in my room, 'till the dusk of the
evening, 1*11 this instant let him out.

(She runs out at door R. returns to C., throws
a kiss towards door. Gets stool from above
door R* places it C. curtseys and runs out at
door R. She re-enters leading MACHEATH by the
hand, who enters singing as follows:-)

AIR NO. 15
Macheath

Pretty Polly say

When I was away,

Did your fancy never stray

To some newer lover?

Polly

Without disguise (On repeat, POLLY

sits on his left knee)
Heaving sighs,
Doting eyes,

My constant heart discover,
Fondly let me loll!

Macheath

0 pretty, pretty Poll,

Polly
(Rises)
And are you as fond as ever, my dear?

Macheath

(Rises, raises stool and puts it down at end
of speech)

Suspect my honor, my courage, suspect anything but my love. —
May my pistols miss fire, and my mare slip her shoulder while I
am pursu'd, if I ever forsake theei

Polly

Nay, my dear, I have no reason to doubt you, for I find in the
romance you lent me, none of the great heroes were ever false
in Love.

I-I-17.

AIR NO. 16

- -

Macheath

(Bows to POLLY up S.C. and crosses D.S. for
song)

My heart was so free

It rov!d like the bee,

'Till Polly my passion requited;

I sipt each Flower,

I chang 'd ev'ry hour,

But here ev'ry flowfr is united.

(Goes up stage to POLLY)

Polly

Were you sentence'd to transportation, sure, my dear, you could
not leave me behind you — could you?

Macheath

Is there any power, any force that could tear me from thee? You
might sooner tear a pension out of the hands of a court i'er, a fee
from a Lawyer, a pretty woman from a looking glass - But to tear
me from thee is impossible I

(He kisses POLLY'S hands and crosses D.S. R.)

AIR NO. 17

Were I laid on Greenland's coast,
And in my arms embrac'd my lass;
Warm amidst eternal frost,
Too soon the half year's night would
pass*

Polly

Were I sold on Indian soil,

Soon as the burning day was clos'd,

I could mock the sultry soil

When on my charmer's breast repos'd.

Macheath

And I would love you all the day,
Polly

Every night would kiss and play,
Macheath

If with me you'd fondly stray,

I-I-18.

(THEY skip to R.)

Polly

Over the hills and far away,
(REPEAT. MACHEATH and POLLY skip to L. )

Polly

Yes, would go with thee. But ohi — how shall I speak it?
I must be torn from thee. We must part.

Macheath
Howl Parti

Polly

We must, we must -- My Papa and Mama are preparing evidence
against thee. Thy life depends upon a moment. One kiss and
then - one kiss - begone - farewell.

Macheath

My hand, my heart, my dear, is so riveted to thine, that I can-
not unloose my hold.

Polly

But my Papa may intercept thee, and then I should lose the very
glimmering of hope. A few weeks, perhaps, may reconcile us all.
Shall thy Polly hear from thee?

Macheath
Must I then go?

Polly
And will not absence change your love?

Macheath
If y6u doubt it, let me stay - and be hang'd.

Polly

0 how I fear I how I tremble I — Go — but when safety will give
you leave, you will be sure to see me again; for 'till then Polly
is wretched.

AIR NO. 18

Oh what Pain it is to parti

Can I leave thee, can I leave thee?

0 what pain it is to parti

Can thy Polly ever leave thee?

But lest death my love should thwart,

And bring thee to the fatal cart,

Thus I tear thee from my bleeding

heart I
Fly hence and let me leave thee.

(SYMPHONY. BOTH move to doors R. and L. Pose
on last chord looking at one another.)

CURTAIN.

II-l,

ACT TWO
SCENE ONE

SCENE; A Tavern near Newgate.

AT RISE: FILCH, JEMMEY TWITCHER,
CROOK-FINGER »D JACK, WAT DREARY,
ROBIN OF BAGSHOT, NIMMING NED,
HENRY PADINGTON, MATT OF THE MINT,
BEN BUDGE, and the rest of the
GANG.

CHORUS discovered dancing in line.
At end of song, MEN move to table
D.R. FILCH and HIGHWAYMAN remain C.

AIR NO. 19

CHORUS: "Fill every glass."

Highwayman

But pr'ythee, Filch, what is become of thy brother, Tom? I have
not seen him since my return from Transportation.

Filch

Poor brother Tom had an accident this time twelvemonth, and so
clever a made fellow he was, that I could not save him from those
fleaing Rascals the surgeons; and now, poor man, he is among the
specimens at Surgeons Hall.

Filch

But the present time is ours, and no body alive hath more. Why
are the Laws levell'd at us? Are we more dishonest than the rest
of Mankind? What we win, gentlemen, is our own by the Law of
Arms, and the Right of Conquest.

Highwayman
Where shall we find such another set of practical philosophers?

Filch
Sound men, and true!

Highwayman
Of try'd courage and indefatigable industry I

Filch
Who is there here that would not die for his friend?

II-2,

Filch
Show me a gang of Courtiers that can say as much.

Highwayman
Every man hath a right to enjoy life.

Filch

We retrench the superfluities of mankind. Money was made for
the free-hearted and generous, and where is the injury of taking
from another, what he hath not the heart to make use of?

AIR NO. 20 (Second Version)
Filch

Fill evfry glass, for wine inspires us,

And fires us

With courage, love and joy.

Women and wine should life employ.

Is there ought else on earth desirous?

(MACHEATH ENTERS door L. )

Macheath

Gentlemen, well met. My heart hath been with you this hour; but
an unexpected affair hath detained me. No ceremony, I beg you.

(CHORUS sits. MACHEATH is D.L. FILCH is C.)

Macheath
I was to have been of that party — but —

II-3*
Pilch

But what, sir?

Macheath
Is there any man who suspects my courage?

(THE MEN shout "No.")

Filch
We have all been witnesses of it.

Macheath
My honor and truth to the gang?

THE MEN shout "No I")

In the division of our booty, have I ever shown the least marks
of avarice or injustice.

(CHORUS "N-n-nol")

(FILCH conducts a definite "No." CHORUS pro-
vide a very indefinite one)

Filch

By these questions something seems to have ruffled you. Are any
of us suspected?

Macheath

I have a fixed confidence, gentlemen, in you all, as men of hon-
or. And as such, I value and respect you. Peachum is a man that
is useful to us.

Filch

Is he about to play us any foul play? I'll shoot him through the
head. **

Macheath

I beg you, gentlemen, act with conduct and discretion, A pistol
is your last resort.

'Filch
He knows nothing of this meeting.

Macheath

We have had a slight difference and 'till it is accommodated, I
shall be oblig'd to keep out of his way. Business cannot go on
without him.

Filch
I grant you, he is of great convenience to us.

Macheath

Make him believe I have quitted the gang, which I can never do
but with life. At our private quarters, I will continue to meet
you, A week or so will probably reconcile us.

II-4.

Filch

Your instructions shall be observ'd. 'Tis now high time for us
to repair to our several duties; so 'till the evening at our
quarters, in Moorfields, we bid you farewell.

All
Good luck I

Filch
Gentlemen, let us take the road.

AIR NO. 21

(At first note, CHORUS rise and cross in single
file to L. where they line facing house. To-
wards end, march out through door L. cross to
R. single file)

Matt and Chorus
(As they go)

Let us take the road
•HarkJ I hear the sound of coaches!
The hour of attack approaches,
To your arms, brave boys, and load.

See the ball I holdi

Let the chymists toil like asses,

Our fire their fire surpasses,

And turns all our lead to gold,

Macheath

What a fool is a fond wenchj Polly is most confoundly bit. - I
love the sex. And a man who loves money, might as well be con-
tented with one guinea, as I with one woman. The town perhaps
have been as much obliged to me for recruiting it with free-
hearted ladies, as to any Recruiting Officer in the Army. If it
were not for us, and the other Gentlemen of the Sword, Drury Lane
would be uninhabited.
(Sits D.R.)

AIR NO. 22

If the heart of a man is deprest with
cares

The mist is dispellfd when a woman ap-
pears;

Like the notes of a fiddle, she sweetly,
sweetly

Raises the spirits, and charms our Ears,

Mache ath ( C ont • )

Roses and Lilies her cheeks disclose,
But her ripe lips are more sweet than
those

Press her
Caress her,
With Blisses,
Her Kisses
Dissolve us in pleasure and soft repose,

I must have women. There is nothing unbends the mind like them*

(ENTER DRAWER to L.C. from L. )
Is the Porter gone for all the ladies according to my directions?

Drawer

I expect him back every minute. But you know, Sir, you sent him
as far as Hockley in the Hole for three of the ladies, for one in
Vinegar-Yard and for the rest of them somewhere about Lewkner!s
Lane.

(Bell. CHORUS -laugh off S.R.)

Sure some of them are below, for I hear the bar bell. As they
come I will show them up« Coming, coming*

(MACHEATH rises and takes a position up S.)
(ENTER MRS. COAXER)

Mache ath
Dear Mrs. Coaxer, you are welcome. You look charmingly today.

(ENTER DOLLY TRULL C.)

Dollyl Kiss me, you slutJ are you as amorous as ever, hussy?
You are always so taken up with stealing hearts, that you don't
allow yourself time to steal anything else.- Ah, Dolly, thou
wilt ever be a coquette I

(MRS. VIXEN ENTERS)

Mrs. Vixen, Ifm yours, I always lov'd a woman of wit and spirit;
they make charming mistresses, but plaguey wives.

(ENTER BETTY DOXY)

Betty, tell me, do you drink as hard as ever? You had better
stick to a good wholesome beer; for in troth, Betty, strong
waters will in time ruin your constitution. You should leave
those to your betters.

II-6.

^

Macheath (Cont.)
DIVER ENTERS)

What! and my pretty Jenny Diver tool As prim and demure as ever I
There is not any prude, though ever so high bred, hath a more
sanctify'd look, with a more mischievous heart. Ah, Jennyl thou
art a dear artful hypocrite.

(MRS. SLAMMEKIN, SUKY TAWDRY, and MOLLY BRAZEN
ENTER)

Mrs. Slammekin! Suky Tawdry I Molly Brazen!

MUSIC NO. 25.

(She kisses him)

That's well done. I love a free-hearted wench. Thou hast a
most agreeable assurance girl, and art as willing as a turtle-
But hark'l I hear music. If music be the food of love, play on.
Ere you seat yourselves, Ladies, what think you of a dance? I
dote on dancing. Play the French tune, that Mrs. Slammekin was
so fond of •

AIR NO. 24
Macheath and Chorus.

Youth's the season made for Joys

Love is then our duty,

She alone who that employs,

Well deserves her beauty.

Let's be gay,

While we may,

Beauty's a flower, despis'd in decay,

Youth's the season, &c.

Let us drink and sport today

Ours is not tomorrow

Love with youth files swift away,

Age is nought but sorrow.

Dance and sing,

Time's on the wing,

Life never knows the return of Spring

DANCE.

Macheath
Now, pray ladies, take your places. Drawer, bring us more wine.

Betty
I dote upon drink*lngl

II-7.

Macheath

If any of the ladles choose gin, I hope they will be so free as
to call for it.

Jenny

(Crosses to MACHEATH)

You look as if you meant me. Wine is strong enough for me. In-
deed, Sir, I never drink strong waters, but when I have the colic.

Macheath

Just the excuse of the fine ladies I Why, a lady of quality is
never without the colic,

(Crosses R. sits at table)

I hope Mrs. Coaxer, you have had good success of late in your
visits among the Mercers.

Coaxer

We have so many interlopers, - Yet with industry one may still
have a little picking.

Vixen

There's Molly Brazen hath the ogle of a rattlesnake. She rivet-
ted a linen-draper's eye so fast upon her that he was nick'd of
three pieces of cambric before he could look off.

Brazen

Oh, dear MadamJ - But sure nothing can come up to your handling
of laces 1 And then you have such a sweet deluding tongue! To
cheat a man is nothing. But the woman must have fine parts in-
deed who cheats a woman,

AIR NO. 25
Brazen

Why how now, Madam Flirt?
If you thus must chatter;
And are for flinging dirt,
Let's try who best can spatter;

Madam Flirt J

Vixen

i

Why how now, saucy Jade;

Sure the wench is tipsyl

How can you see me made (To Him)

The scoff of such a gipsy?

Saucy Jade I (To Her)

•
(At end of number, tug of war up stage.

MACHEATH breaks line and comes D.S. C.)

II-8.

Macheath

Have done with your compliments, ladies; and drink about; You
are not so fond of me, Jenny, as you used to toe*

Jenny

'tis not convenient, Sir, for me to show my fondness among so
many rivals,

AIR NO, 26
Jenny and Chorus,

Before the barn-door crowing,

The cock by hens attended,

His eyes around him throwing,

Stands for a while suspended.

Then one he singles from the crew,

And cheers the happy hen;

With how do you do, and how do you do,

And how do you do again,

DANCE,

Macheath
(Embraces her)
Ah, Jenny 1 Thou art a dear slut.

Jenny

(Binding a handkerchief over his eyes)
Catch me if you canj

(THE GIRLS push him around until he is seized by
PEACHUM, who has entered C. followed by TURNKEY.)

Peachum
I seize you, Sir, as my prisoner,

Macheath

Was this well done, Jenny? — Women are decoy ducks 1 Who can
trust them! Beasts, jades, Jilts, harpies, furiesl

Peachum

Your case, Mr. Macheath, is not particular. The greatest heroes
have been ruinfd by women. But, to do them justice, I must own
they are a pretty sort of creatures, if we could trust them. You
must now, sir, take your leave of the ladies, and if they have a
mind to make you a visit, they will be sure to find you at home.
This gentleman, ladies, lodges in Newgate, Constables, wait upon
the Captain to his lodgings.

(Struggle. MACHEATH shakes off TURNKEY who
goes to rostrum. MACHEATH, held by PEACHUM,
sings song C, )

II-9.

Macheath

AIR HO. 27

At the tree I shall suffer with pleasure,

At the tree I shall suffer with pleasure,

Let me go where I will,

In all kinds of ill,

I shall find no such furies as these are.

(EXIT. JENNY throws pistol down and sobs on
table as CURTAIN FALLS).

ACT DROP DOWN,

NO. 28 INTERLUDE.

II-II-10.

ACT TWO
SCENE TWO

SCENE; Newgate. Small table and
two stools D. Stage R. Stool L.

AT RISE; LOCKIT discovered sitting
stool L. ENTER MACHEATH with JAILOR
up R. to C. LOCKIT rises)

NO. 29 CURTAIN MUSIC.

Lockit

Noble Captain, you are welcome. You have not been a lodger of
mine this year and half. You know the custom, Sir. Garnish,
Captain, garnish. Hand me down those fetters there.

Lockit

Look ye, Captain, we know* what is fittest for our prisoners. When
a gentleman uses me with civility, I always do the best I can to
please him. - We have them of all prices, from one guinea to ten,
and ftis fitting every gentleman should please himself.
(Holds out his hand)

Macheath
I understand you, Sir.

(Gives money)

The fees here are so many that few fortunes can bear the expense
of dying like a gentleman.

Lockit

Those, I see, will fit the Captain better - Take down the further
pair. Do but examine them, Sir - Never was better work - How
genteely they aro made I — They will fit as easy as a glove, and
the nicest man in England might not be ashamed to wear them.

(He puts on the chains)

If I had the best gentleman in the land in my custody I could not
equip him more handsomely. And so, Sir - I now leave you to your
private meditations.

(Exits door L. followed by Turnkey)

(MACHEATH struggles with chains, gives up the
effort, crosses to stool R. and sings)

II-II-ll.

AIR NO. 30

Man may escape from rope and gun;
Nay, some have out-liv'd the doctor's

pill;

Who takes a woman must be undone,
That Basilisk is sure to kill.
The fly that sips treacle is lost in

the sweets.

So he that tastes woman, woman, woman,
He that tastes woman, ruin meets.

To what a woeful plight have I "brought myself I Here must I - all
day long, 'till I am hang'd - be confln!d to hear the reproaches
of a wench who lays her ruin at my door -- I am in the custody of
her father and to be sure, if he knows of the matter, I shall have
a fine time onft betwixt this and my execution — But I promis'd
the wench marriage — What signifies a promise to a woman?

(Crash and voices off L. )
Lucy, and I cannot get from her. Wou!d I were deaf I

(LUCY ENTERS L. )

Lucy

You base man, you - how can you look me in the face after what
hath passed between us? 0 Macheath,

(Crosses to him)

thou hast robb!d me of my quiet — to see thee tortur'd would
give me pleasure.

AIR NO. 51

Thus when a good housewife sees a rat

In her trap in the morning taken,

With pleasure her heart goes pit-a-pat,

In revenge for her loss of bacon

Then she throws him

To the dog or cat,

To be worried, crush *d and shaken.

Macheath

Have you no bowels, no tenderness, my dear Lucy to see a husband
in these circumstances?

Lucy
A husband?

Macheath

In ev'ry respect but the form, and that, my dear, may be said
over us at any time - Friends should not insist upon ceremonies.
Prom a man of honor, his word is as good as his bond.

II-II-12.

Lucy

fTis the pleasure of all you fine men to insult the women you
have ruinfd.

(Sings C. and sits stool L. at end)

NO. 1 APPENDIX VOCAL SCORE,
(Omitted when preceding air is sung)

How cruel are the traitors
Who lie and swear in jest
To cheat unguarded creatures
Of virtue, fame and restj
Whoever stoals a shilling,
Through shame the guilt conceals;
In love the perjur'd villain
With boasts the theft reveals.

Oh, how I long to be made an honest woman.

Macheath

The very first opportunity, my dear, have but patience, you shall
be my wife in whatever manner you please.

Lucy

(Rises and crosses to him)

Insinuating monster I And so you think I know nothing of the af-
fair of Miss Polly Peachum — I could tear thy eyes out I

Lucy
Are you not married to her, you brute, you.

Macheath
Married! Very good. The wench gives it out only to vex thee»

NO. 2 APPENDIX V*S. (OPTIONAL)

Tho first time at the looking glass

The mother sets her daughter,

Tho imago strikes the smiling lass

With self-love ever after,

Each time she looks, she fonder grown,

Thinks ev*ry charm grows stronger.

But alas, vain maid, all eyes but your

own
Can see you are not younger.

To convince you of my sincerity, if we can find the Chaplain, I
shall have no scruples of making you my wife; and I know the con-
sequences of having two at a time.

11-11*13.

Lucy
That you are only to be hangfd, and so get rid of them both.

Macheath
I am ready, my dear Lucy, to give you satisfaction -

(Leading her to up R.)

if you think there is any in marriage. — What can a man of hon-
or say more?

(EXIT LUCY and MACHEATH A. PEACHUM and LOCKIT
ENTER. LOCKIT with an account book)

Lockit

In this last affair, Brother Peachum, we are agreed. You have
consented to go halves in Macheath.

Peachum

We shall never fall out about an execution — But as to that
article, pray hov; stands our last year!s account?

(THEY sit at table down R. LOCKIT R.
PEACHUM L.)

Lockit

If you will run your eye over it, you1 11 find 'tis fair and
clearly stated.

Peachum

This long arrear of the Government is very hard upon usl Can it
be expected that we would hang our acquaintance for nothing.

Lockit

Perhaps, brother, they are afraid these matters may be carried
too far. Wo are treated too by them with contempt, as if our
profession were not reputable.

Peachum

In one respect indeed our employment may be reckon'd dishonest,
because, like great Statesmen, we encourage those who betray
their friends.

Lockit

Such language, brother, anywhere else, might turn to your preju-
dice. Learn to be more guarded, I beg you.

NO. 3 APPENDIX may bo sung here.

Peachum

Here's poor Ned Clincher's name, I see. He told me in the Con-
demn 'd Hold, that for value receiv'd, you had promis'd him a
Session or two longer without molestation.

II-II-14

Lockit

Mr. Peachum-this is the first time my honor was ever call'd in
question.

Peachum
Business is at an end - if once we act dishonorably.

Lockit
Who accuses me?

»

Peachum
You are warm, brother.

Lockit

He that attacks my honor, attacks my livelihood. And this usage-
Sir -- is not to be borne.

(Rises and moves down R. having thumped table
with fist)

Peachum

(Rloes)

Since you provoke me to speak — I must tell you too, that Mrs.
Coaxer charges you with defrauding her of her Information Money,
for the apprehending of curl-pated Hugh.

(Moves to C.)

Indeed, indeed, brother, we must punctually pay our spies, or we
shall have no information.

Lockit

(Following him to C»)

Is this language to me sirrah — who have savfd you from the gal-
lows, sirrah!

(Collaring each other)

Peachum

If I am hangfd, it shall be for ridding the world of 'an arrant
rascal.

Lockit

This hand shall do the office of the halter you deserve, and
throttle you — you dog!

(When LOCKIT collars him, PEACHUM goes on his knees
L.C.)

Peachum

Brother, brother — We are both in the wrong — We shall be both
losers in the dispute -- for you know we have it in our power to
hang each other.

(LOCKIT releases PEACHUM and moves to R.C.

PEACHUM rises)
You should not be so passionate.

Lockit
Nor you so provoking.

Peachum

If I said anything, brother, to the prejudice of your character,
I ask pardon. I only meant to give you occasion to justify your-
self.

Lockit

(Holds out his hand)
Brother Peachum - Give me your hand.

AIR NO. 52 .

Thus Gamesters unitfid in friendship
are found,

Though they know that their industry
is all a cheat;

They flock to their prey at the dice-
box's sound.

And join to promote one another's de-
ceit.

But if by mishap
They fail of a chap,

To keep in their hands, they each other
entrap.

Like Pikes, lank with hunger, who
miss of their ends,

They bite their companions and prey
on their friends.

DANCE.

(EXIT PEACHUM. LOCKIT goes to door L. shakes
his fist after PEACHUM and sits on stool down
L.)

(L0CY enters up R. She moves down R.C.)

Lockit
Whence come you, hussy?

Lucy
My tears might answer that question.

Lockit

(Rises and moves up L. takes handcuffs and
polishes them)

You have been whimpering and fondling like a spaniel, over the
fellow that hath abus'd you.

Lucy

One can't help love; one can't cure it. 'Tis not in my power
to obey you and hate him.

II-II-16,

Lockit
Learn to bear your husband's death like a reasonable woman.

(LUCY sits on stool L. of table. He stands C.)
!Tis not the fashion nowadays, so much as to affect sorrow upon
these occasions. — So, I think you must evfn do like other wid-
ows — buy yourself weeds and be cheerful*

AIR NO. 55

You'll think ere may days ensue

This sentence not severe;

I hang your husband, child, 'tis true

But with him hang your care

Twang dang dillo dee.

(Showing LUCY out up R.)

Like a good wife, go moan over your dying husband. That child ,-
is your duty — Consider, girl, you can't have the man and the
money, too - 30 make yourself as easy as you can, by getting all
you can from him.

(EXITS D.S. C.)

(MACHEATH ENTERS with LUCY and crosses D.S. C.)

Lucy

Though the Chaplain be not yet returned from the George and Drag-
on, I hope, my dear, you will upon the first opportunity, quiet
my scruples - Oh, siri — my father's hard heart is not to be
soften'd, and I am in the utmost despair.

Macheath

Would not twenty guineas, think you, move him? Of all the argu-
ments in the way of business, the perquisite is the most prevail-
ing -- Your Father's perquisites for the escape of prisoners must
amount to a considerable sum in the year.

Lucy

What love or money can do shall be done: for all my comfort de-
pends upon your safety.

(POLI# appears door L.)

Polly

Where is my dear husband? — Was a rope ever intended for this
neck I - Oh, let me throw my arms about it and throttle thee with
love I Why dost thou turn away from me?

(Crosses to him)
'Tis thy Polly, - 'Tis thy wife.

Macheath
Was ever such an unfortunate rascal as I ami

II-II-17.

Polly

0 Macheathl Was it for this we parted? Cruel reflection! I'll
stay with thee 'till death.

AIR NO. 54

Thus when the swallow seeking prey,
Within the sash is closely pent,
His consort with bemoaning lay,
Without sits pining for thf event.
Her chat t1 ring lovers all around her

skim;
She heeds them not, poor bird, her

soul's with him.

Macheath
(Aside) »

1 must disown her.

(to LUCY aside)
The wench is distracted.

Lucy

Am I then bilk'd of my virtue? Can I have no reparation? Sure
man were born to lie and women to believe theml 0 villaini vil-
laini

(Up to MACHEATH)

Polly

(Up to MACHEATH)
Am I not thy wife? Look on me — tell me, am I not thy wife?

Perfidious wrotchl

Tolly
Barbarous husband I

Lucy
Hadst thou been hang'd five months ago, I had been happy.

Polly
And I, too.

Lucy
Art thou then married to another? Hast thou two wives, monster?

Macheath
If woman's tongues can cease for an answer - hear me.

II-II-18

AIR NO, 35

Macheath

How happy could I be with either,
Were t'other dear charmer away.
But while you thus tease me together,
To neither a word will I say;
But tol de rol, &c»

Polly
Sure, my dear, there ought to be some preference shown to a wife,

Lucy

Oh villain, villain! thou hast deceivfd me — I could even in-
form against thoe with pleasure. Not a prude wishes more heart-
ily to have facto against her intimate acquaintance than I now
wish to have facts against thee.

AIR NO. 56
Polly

I!m bubbled.
Lucy

I'm bubbled!
Polly

Oh how I am troubled 1
Lucy

Bambouzled, and bit I
Polly

My distresses are doubled.
Lucy

When you come to the tree, should
the Hangman refuse,

These fingers with pleasure, could
fasten the noose.

Polly

I»m bubbled, & C.

II-II-19.

(BOTH cross to PROSC.)

Lucy

Really, Miss Peachum, you but expose yourself. Besides 'tis
barbarous in you to worry a gentleman in his circumstances.

Polly

Decency, Madam, methinks might teach you to behave yourself
with some reserve with the husband while his wife is present.

Lucy

If you are determin'd, Madam, to raise a disturbance in the pri-
son, I shall be oblig'd to send for the Turnkey to show you the
door. I am sorry, Madam, you force me to be so ill-bred.

Polly
Give me leave to tell you, Madam;

(Court soy)

These forward airs don't become you in the least, Madam. And my
duty, Madam -

(Repeats curtseys as marked, each time more
defiantly, finally runs up to MACHEATH round
to his Left)

obliges me to stay with my husband, Madam--
(Curtsey)

AIR NO. 57
Polly

Cease your funning;

Force or cunning

Never shall my heart trapan

All these sallies

Are but malice *

To seduce my constant man.

'Tis most certain

By their flirting

Women oft have envy shown

Pleas fd, to ruin

Others wooing;

Never happy in their own!

(PEACHUM ENTERS L. LOCKIT R.)

Peachum

Where's my wench? Ah, hussy; hussy I - Come you home, you slut;
and when your fellow is hang'd, hang yourself, to make your fam-
ily some amends.

II-II-20.

Polly

Dear, dear Father, do not tear me from him -- I must speak; I
have more to say to him - OhJ twist thy fetters about me, that
he may not haul me from the el

Peachum

Sure all women are alike I If ever they commit one folly, they
are sure to commit another — Away — Not a word morel

AIR NO. 38
Polly and Ensemble,

No power on earth can e'er divide
The knot that sacred love hath tyfd»
When parents draw against our mind,
The true-love's knot they faster bind,
Oh, oh ray, oh Amborah - oh, oh, &c»

(PEACHUM drags POLLY to L. LOCKIT drags LUCY
to R. MACHEATH left C.)

ACT DROP DOWN,
(Momentary interval only.)

11-111-21.

ACT TWO

— — — — ,

SCENE THREE

AT RISE; LUCY and MACHEATH discovered
embraced C«

Macheath

I am naturally compassionate, wife; so that I could not use the
wench as she deserv'd; which made you at first suspect there was
something in what she said.

Lucy
Indeed, my dear, I was strangely puzzled.

Macheath

If that had been the case, her father would never have brought
me into this circumstance - No, Lucy - I had rather die than be
false to thec.

Lucy

How happy I am, if you say this from your heart I For I love thee
so, that I could sooner bear to see thoe hang'd than in the arms
of another.

I'acheath
But could1 st thou bear to see me hang!d?

Lucy
0 Macheath, I can never live to see that day,

Macheath

Lucy; in the account of love you are in ray debt, make me if pos-
sible, love thee more, and let me owe my life to thee - if you
refuse to assist me, Peachum and your father will immediately
put me beyond all means of escape.

Lucy

My father, I know, hath been drinking hard with the prisoners;
and I fancy he is now taking his nap in his own room - if I can
procure the keys, shall I go off with thee, my dear?

Macheath

Would it were possible I but if we are together, 'twill be impos-
sible to lie conceal fd. As soon as the search begins to be a
little cool, I will send to thee - »Till then my heart is thy
prisoner.

II-III-22,

Lucy

Come then, my dear husband - owe thy life to me and though you
love me not - be grateful — But that Polly runs in my head
strangely.

(She goes down L. )

Macheath
A moment of time lost, may make us unhappy forever.

AIR NO, 59 MELODRAMA

(LUCY strikes his chains and takes them out
L. Both EXIT R.)

(Lights change. LUCY crosses with key and
lamp to L., followed by MACHEATH. THEY
again enter and cross front stage R to L.
MACHEATH with valise and coat.)

CURTAIN

III-I-l,

ACT THREE
SCENE ONE

SCENE ; A gaming house. Wall flats
at back, away, large rostrum behind
pillars backed by flats or curtains,
steps down to stage.

AT RISE; On rostrum MRS. VIXEN R.
BETTY, MRS. TRAPES sitting L. CHORUS
discovered dancing.

Solo and Chorus.

AIR NO. 40

In a humour I was of late,

As many good fellows be,

To think of no matters of state,

But to seek f or^ good company.

Which best might seek my mind.

So I travelled up and down,

But no company could I find

Till I came to the sight of the Crown.

For drinking will make a man quaff
And quaffing will make a man sing
And singing will make a man laugh
And laughing long life doth bring.

Says old Sir Simon the King
Says old Sir Simon the King,
With his ale-dropt hose and his

Malmsey nose,
"Sing hey ding-a-ding a-ding-ding.

(DANCE, after which CHORUS move up to rostrum)
(ENTER MACHEATH with mask)

(FILCH enters R. attracts MACKEATH'S attention
and shows empty pockets)

Macheath

I'm sorry the road was so barren of money. When my friends are
in difficulties, I'm always glad if my fortune can be service-
able to them.

(CHORUS creep down and listen)

III-I-2.

Pilch

It grieves my heart that so generous a man should be involved in
such difficulties as oblige him to herd with gamesters.

Macheath

There will be deep play tonight, and, consequently money may be
picked up on the road. Meet me at -.Marybone and I'll give you the
hint who is worth setting.

AIR NO. 41

DUET. MACHEATH FILCH and CHORUS.
Macheath

The modes of the Court so common are

grown

That a true friend can hardly be met;
Friendship for interest is but a loan
Which they let out for what they can

get.

Filch

Tis true, you find
Some friend so kind,
Who will give you good counsel them-
selves to defend,
• In sorrowful ditty,

They promise, they pity,
But shift you for money, from friend
to friend.

Macheath

Envy and hate are scarcely restrain !d
Gratitude's claims avail not a jot;
Friendship is valued for what may be

gained,
Benefits given are quickly forgot.

Filch
'Tis true, you find, &c.

Mrs. Trapes.

(Coming down to MACHEATH. HE puts up his mask)

A nobleman? Son of a noble father, who frowns on the follies of
a youth of spirit?

Macheath

Just so. But I fear I am somewhat of a greenhorn and know not
profoundly the ways of these places.

III-I-3.

Mrs. Trapes
Pass along, Greenhornt T.empt the jade fortune; tickle her ribs.

(MACHEATH joins players. Laughter)

The turn of his pretty leg pleases me. But, alas, poor man,
there is a price upon his head, and I am but a poor woman.
(She draws the curtain. Inner tableau
curtain cutting off rostrum and steps)

NO. 42 INCIDENTAL MUSIC (See
"Whistle" for Peachum off stage)

(ENTER PEACHUM and LOCKIT R.)

Peachum

Dear Mrs. Dye, your servant; one may know by your kiss, that
your gin is excellent.

Mrs. Trapes

I take as largo draughts of liquor as I did of love. I hate a
flincher in either.

NO. 45

TRIO. MRS. TRAPES, TEACHUM & LOCKIT.

In the days of my youth I could bill

like a dove, fa, la, la, &cc«

(See Vocal Score)
Like a sparrow at all times was ready

for love, fa, la, la, &c.
The life of all mortals in kissing

should pass,
Lip to lip while we're young, then

the lip to the glass, fa, la, &c.

DANCE DURING REFRAIN.

But now, Mr. Peachum, to business.

(Pointing to curtain, from behind which
laughter is heard)

An intimate acquaintance of yours - Captain Macheath, as fine
as a lord.

Lockit
Macheath in your house.

Peachum

Tomorrow, dear Mrs. Dye, you shall set your own price on any of
the goods you like. We have at least half a dozen velvet scarfs,
and all at your service. Will you give me leave to make you a
present of a suit of night clothes for your own wearing?

-(cont. )-

III-I-4.

Peachum (Cont.)

'Takes packet out of his pocket and gives it
to her)
But are you sure it is the Captain?

Mrs. Trapes

(Undoing parcel which contains night dress)

Though he thinks I have forgot him, nobody knows him better. I
have taken a great deal of the Captain's money in my time - at
second hand, for he always loved to have his ladies well dressed.

Peachum

Mr. Lockit and I have a little business with the Captain; you
understand me.

Lockit

Depend upon it, we1 11 deal like men of honor. Bring him to us -
entice him.

Mrs. Trapes
Entice him.

(To PEACHUM - struck with a sudden idea)
A wench.

(Putting night dress on PEACHUM)

It hath always been my maxim, that one friend should assist an-
other.

(EXIT MRS. TRAPES L. )
Heaven smiles, at midnight.

Lockit

Brother Peachum, it is a just world,
the dice as is ours tonight.

(PEAQHUM holds pistol behind his back and
pretends to swoon in LOCKIT !S arms)

Mrs. Trapes

(Entering with MACHEATH)
A most fair wench, in her shift - Fainting from love.

(MACHEATH goes to PEACHUM and LOCKIT, who
spring at him and seize him)

(CHORUS ENTER from the right and left sing-
ing the second part of "LILLI-BULLERO," fin-
ally forming picture pointing at MACHEATH.)

CURTAIN
NO. 44 INTERLUDE.

III-II-5.

ACT THREE
SCENE TWO

NO. 45 FOR CURTAIN.
SCENE r NEWGATE PRISON.

AT RISE; LUCY discovered up stage
R. She crosses D.S. C. for song.

Lucy

Jealousy, rage, love and fear are at once tearing me to pieces.
How I an weather-beaten and shatter 'd with distress I

AIR NO. 46

I'm like a skiff on the ocean tost,
Nov; high, now low, with each billow

born,
With her rudder broke and her anchor

lost,

Deserted and all forlorn^.
While thus I lie rolling* and tossing

all night,
That Polly lies sporting on seas of

delight;

Revenge, revenge, revenge,
Shall appease my restless sprite.

(JAILOR ENTERS R.)

Jailor
Madam, here's Miss Polly come to v/ait upon you.

Lucy
Show her in.

(POLLY enters)
Dear Madam, your servant,

Polly

I should not have left you in the rude manner I did when we
met last, Madam, had not my Papa hauled me away so unexpectedly.

Lucy
I have no excuse for my own behaviour.

(POLLY sighs. LUCY takes POLLY to stool R.
where she sits)

Indeed, my dear Polly, we are both of -us a cup too low. Let me
prevail upon you to accept a glass of cordial.

III-II-6.

AIR NO. 47

Come sweet lass,

Let's banish sorrow

'Till tomorrow

Come, sweet lass,

Let's take a chirping glass.

Wine can clear

The vapours of despair

And make us light as air;

Then drink and banish care.

(Going to POLLY and putting her hands on her
shoulders )

I can't bear, child, to see you in such low spirits. - And I
must persuade you to what I know will do you good.

(Crosses to door L. before speaking)

I have the Rats -bane ready. I shall now soon be even with the
hypocritical strumpet.

(Aside)

(She exits through door L. )

Polly

(Rises and moves D.S. C. before speaking)

All this wheedling of Lucy cannot be for nothing. — At this time
tool when I know she hates me! — The dissembling of a woman Is
always the fore-runner of mischief. - By pouring strong-waters
down my throat, she thinks to pump some secrets out of me.

(Moving towards stool R.)

I'll be upon my guard and won't taste a drop of her liquor, I'm
resolv'd.

(Sits)

(ENTER LUCY with strong -waters, L»)

Lucy
Come, Miss Polly.

Polly

Indeed, child, you have given yourself trouble to no purpose -
You must, my dear, excuse me.

Lucy

Really, Miss Polly, you are as squeamishly affected about taking
a cup of strong-waters as a lady before company. I vow, Polly,
I shall take it monstrously ill if you refuse me.

Polly
I protest, Madam, it goes against me.

(ENTER MACHEATH between LOCKIT and PEACHUM
up R. )

What do I seel Macheath again in custodyl — Now every glim'ring
of happiness is lost.

m-ii-7.

Lockit

Set your heart to rest, Captain — You have neither the chance
of love or money for another escape, -- for you are order 'd to
be call'd down upon your trial immediately,

(THE WOMEN rush up to MACHEATH)

Pea chum

Away, hussies I -- This is not a time for a man to be hamper !d
with his wives, - You see, the gentleman is in chains already.

AIR NO. 48

"Hither, dear Husband."

Lucy
0 husband, husband, my heart long'd to see thee; but to see thee

thus distracts me.

/

Polly

Will not my dear husband look upon his Polly? Why hadst thou
not flown to me for protection? With me thou hadst been safe*

Macheath

What would you have me say, ladies? -- You see this affair will
soon be at an end, without my disobliging either of you.

AIR NO. 49
Macheath

Which way shall I turn me --• How can

I decide?
Wives, the day of our death, are as

fond as a bride.
One wife is too much for most husbands

to hear,
But two at a time there's no mortal

can bear.
This way, and that way, and which way

I will,
What would comfort the one, t'other

wife would take ill.

Polly

(Crosses to PEACHUM L. )

But if his own misfortunes have made him insensible to mine — A
father sure will be more compassionate -- Dear, dear, Sir, sink
the material evidence, and bring him off at his trial - Polly,
upon her knees begs it of you.

III-II-8.

Lucy

(Crosses to LOCKIT)

If Peachum's heart is harden'd; sure you, Sir, will have more com-
passion on a daughter. -- I know the evidence is in your power —
How then can you be a tyrant to me?

(Kneeling)

Lockit

Macheathfs time is come, Lucy. We know our own affairs, therefore
let us have no more whimpering or whining*

Peachum

Set your heart at rest, Polly. Your husband is to die today.
Therefore if you are not already provided, 'tis high time to look
about for another. There's comfort for you, you slut.

Lockit
We are ready, Sir, to conduct you to the Old Daily.

(PEACHUM and LOCKIT rise and go to MACHEATH.
A hand on each shoulder and escort him out
to up R.)

Macheath
Gentlemen, I am ready to attend you*

AIR NO. 50 "Bonny Dundee."

"The charge is prepared," etc.
See Vocal Score No. 50-.

(On EXIT, POLLY and LUCY rise and fly into one
another's arms. PILCH ENTERS L. )

Polly

Follow them, Filch, to the court. And when the trial is over,
bring me a particular account of his behavior and of everything
that happened - You'll find me here with Miss Lucy.

(EXIT FILCH)

MUSIC -HORNPIPE- NO. 51 V.S. played
through dialogue and afterwards for
dance.

But why is all this music?

Lucy

The prisoners, whose trials are put off 'till next Session, are
diverting themselves.

Polly

Sure there is nothing so charming as music I I'm fond of it to
distractionl - But alas I - now, all mirth seems an insult upon

- ( cont . ) -

III-II-9.

Polly (Cont.)

my affliction. Let us retire, my dear Lucy, and indulge our sor-
rows. The noisy crew, you see, are coming upon us.

(LUCY and POLLY EXIT R.)

(A dance of PRISONERS in chains, etc,)

(CURTAIN DOWN while prisoners are still dancing,
music continues during change of Scene.)

CURTAIN

(THE BEGGAR ENTERS and sits in Proscenium corner
in front of curtain L» )

ACT THREE

SCENE THREE

SCENE; The condemned hold.

AT RISE; MACHEATH discovered standing
behind grill - up stage C.

AIR N0.52

0 cruel, cruel, cruel easel
Must I suffer this disgrace?

Of all the friends in time of grief,
When threatening death looks grimmer,
Not one so sure can bring relief,
As this best friend, a brimmer.
(Drinks from tankard)

But can I leave my pretty hussies,
Without one tear or tender sigh?
Their eyes, their lips, their busses
Recall my love — Ah must I die I

(JAILOR ENTERS R.)

Jailor
Some friends of yours, Captain, desire to be admitted--

(P1LCH and HIGHWAYMAN ENTER. HIGHWAYMAN to
L. of MACHEATH. FILCH to R. of him)

I leave you together.
(EXITS)

Macheath

For my having broke Prison, you see, gentlemen, I am order fd im-
mediate execution. The sheriff1.^ officers, I believe, are now
at the door. Therefore, I beg you, look well to yourselves, for
in all probability you may live some months longer.

Filch

We are heartily sorry, Captain, for your misfortune
what we must all come to.

But »tis

Macheath

Remember your dying friendl *Tis my last request. - Bring those
villains Peachum and Lockit to the gallows before you, and I am
satisfied.

III-III-ll,

Pilch

We'll do»t.

Jailor
Miss Polly and Miss Lucy entreat a word with you.

, Macheath
Gentlemen, adieu.

(EXIT HIGHWAYMAN up L. PILCH up R. From R.
ENTER LUCY to L* of MACHEATH POLLY to R.)

Macheath

My dear Lucy — My dear Polly -- Whatsoever hath pass'd between
us is now at an end — If you are fond of marrying again, the
best advice I can give you is to ship yourselves off for the West-
Indies, where you'll have a fair chance of getting a husband a-
piece, or by good luck, two or three, as you like best.

Lucy
There is nothing moves one so much as a great man in distress.

AIR NO. 55
Lucy

Would I might be hang»dl
Polly

And I would so, tool
Lucy

To be hang'd with you.
Polly

My dea-p with you I
Macheath

0, leave me to thought I I fear I I
doubt I I tremble I I droop I — See,
my courage is out.

(Turns up the empty tankard)

Polly

No token of love?

III-III-12.

Polly

Adieu
Lucy

Farewell
Macheath

But hark I I hear the toll of the bell.
(ENTER PILCH)

Filch
Four more women, Captain, with a child apiece I

(ENTER WOMEN and CHILDREN)

Macheath

What — four wives morel - This is too much - here - tell the
Sheriff's Officers I am ready,

(EXITS Guarded R.)

(EXIT POLLY and LUCY to R.)

(Up stage tabs down.)

(ENTER FILCH and drags up BEGGAR from L.R.)

v.

Flayer

But, honest friend, I hope you don't intend that Macheath shall
be really executed.

Beggar

Most certainly, Sir - To make the piece perfect, I was for doing
strict poetical justice — Macheath is to be hang'd; and for the
other personages of the drama, the audience must have - suppos'd
they were all either hang*d or transported.

Player

Why then, friend, this is a downright deep tragedy, the catastro-
phe is manifestly wrong, for an Opera must end happily.

Beggar

Your objection, Sir, is very just, and is easily remov'd. — So -
cry a reprieve I — let the prisoner be brought back to his wives
in triumph I

(EXIT FILCH to R.)

III-III-13.

(ENTER LADIES of Town and HIGHWAYMEN. When
all Chorus is on, Tabs up. Curtains up stage.

(MACHEATH discovered on Rostrum under gallows
with rope round neck. LUCY on step L. POLLY
on step R.

(On entry of FILCH R. crying "A reprieve" MAC-
HEATH comes D.S.C., speaking, he is surrounded
by his wives. For song, same position)

Macheath

So it seems, I am not left to my choice, but must have a wife
at last. Look ye, my dears, we will have no controversy now.
Let us give this day to mirth and I am sure she who thinks her-
self my wife will testify her joy by a dance.
(Tnkea POLLY by the hand)

All
Come, a dance — a dance I

AIR NO. 54

Thus I stand like the Turk, with his
doxies around

From all sides their glances his pas-
sion confound.

For black, brown and fair, his incon-
stancy burns,

And the different beauties subdue him
by turns;

Each calls forth her charms, to pro-
voke his desires.

Though willing to all, with but one
he retires.

But think of this maxim, and put off
your sorrow,

The wretch of today may be happy to-
morrow*

Chorus

But think of this maxim, &c.

(THE GALLOWS is converted into a Maypole round
which the characters dance. See Vocal Score.)

FINIS

Pepusch, John Christopher
cThe beggar's opera.

Libretto. English^

Gay's The beggar »s opera

FACULTY OF
MUSIC LIBRARY

DATEDUE

HOURS
beginning SEPT.10